2026 US Weather Extremes: Predicted Coldest and Hottest Days by State
Wondering what the weather has in store for 2026? From frigid winter lows to blistering summer highs, we’ve forecasted the absolute coldest and hottest single-day temperatures for every US state. These predictions, including the hottest temps by state, are based on historical extremes from NOAA and Wikipedia, adjusted for 2026’s expected patterns: a colder-than-average winter with frequent snowstorms, per the Farmers’ Almanac, and a potentially scorching summer, especially in the South and West, according to NOAA’s seasonal outlook. Whether you’re planning a trip, prepping your home, or just curious about extreme weather, this guide breaks down the most intense temperatures expected in 2026, complete with a chart and intresting facts that focus on hottest temps by state.
Predicted Absolute Coldest and Hottest Temperatures for 2026 by State
These forecasts pinpoint the lowest and highest single-day temperatures expected in each state, reflecting winter cold snaps and summer heatwaves that contribute to the hottest temps by state. We’ve used historical records, adjusted slightly for 2026’s colder winter and warmer summer trends (about 1-2°F above recent averages in many regions). All temperatures are in °F and rounded for clarity. Note that local variations, like mountain peaks or coastal areas, may differ from these statewide predictions.
| State | Predicted Absolute Coldest Temp (°F) | Predicted Absolute Hottest Temp (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | -10 | 108 |
| Alaska | -55 | 90 |
| Arizona | -25 | 122 |
| Arkansas | -15 | 115 |
| California | -30 | 130 |
| Colorado | -45 | 110 |
| Connecticut | -25 | 105 |
| Delaware | -10 | 108 |
| Florida | 5 | 105 |
| Georgia | -10 | 110 |
| Hawaii | 20 | 95 |
| Idaho | -45 | 115 |
| Illinois | -30 | 112 |
| Indiana | -25 | 110 |
| Iowa | -35 | 115 |
| Kansas | -25 | 118 |
| Kentucky | -20 | 110 |
| Louisiana | -5 | 110 |
| Maine | -40 | 100 |
| Maryland | -25 | 105 |
| Massachusetts | -30 | 105 |
| Michigan | -40 | 108 |
| Minnesota | -45 | 110 |
| Mississippi | -10 | 110 |
| Missouri | -25 | 115 |
| Montana | -50 | 112 |
| Nebraska | -35 | 115 |
| Nevada | -35 | 120 |
| New Hampshire | -40 | 102 |
| New Jersey | -20 | 108 |
| New Mexico | -40 | 115 |
| New York | -35 | 105 |
| North Carolina | -15 | 108 |
| North Dakota | -50 | 115 |
| Ohio | -25 | 110 |
| Oklahoma | -15 | 118 |
| Oregon | -35 | 115 |
| Pennsylvania | -30 | 108 |
| Rhode Island | -20 | 102 |
| South Carolina | -10 | 110 |
| South Dakota | -45 | 115 |
| Tennessee | -15 | 110 |
| Texas | -10 | 118 |
| Utah | -50 | 112 |
| Vermont | -40 | 100 |
| Virginia | -20 | 108 |
| Washington | -30 | 115 |
| West Virginia | -25 | 108 |
| Wisconsin | -40 | 110 |
| Wyoming | -50 | 112 |
Chart: Top 5 States for Extreme Cold and Heat in 2026
To spotlight the most extreme predictions, here’s a bar chart comparing the top five states for the coldest and hottest temperatures expected in 2026. (Alt text: Bar chart showing the top five predicted hottest temps by state for 2026 and the coldest temperatures, with bars scaled to temperature values.)
This chart highlights the stark contrast between northern states facing brutal cold and western/southern states bracing for intense heat among the hottest temps by state.
Related: Winter 2025-2026: Snowfall Predictions for Every US State
Fascinating Facts About 2026 Temperature Extremes
- Alaska’s Deep Freeze: Forecasted to hit -55°F, Alaska could approach its all-time low of -80°F if a polar vortex strikes. The Farmers’ Almanac suggests frequent cold snaps, making it a year for heavy parkas.
- California’s Scorching Peak: A predicted 130°F high puts California near its record of 134°F in Death Valley. NOAA’s warmer summer outlook could mean more heatwaves, especially in desert regions.
- Massive Temperature Swings: Montana and North Dakota could see over 160°F differences between their coldest (-50°F) and hottest (115°F) days, thanks to their continental climate and potential La Niña effects, illustrating hottest temps by state.
- Florida’s Milder Extremes: With a low of 5°F and a high of 105°F, Florida stays relatively temperate. Warming trends might push heatwaves higher, but it’s still a winter haven.
- Snowy Northwest Chills: Washington’s predicted -30°F low aligns with the Almanac’s forecast of a snowy, cold Pacific Northwest. Bundle up if you’re in the Cascades!
Planning for 2026? Keep an eye on NOAA’s updates as the year approaches for real-time forecasts. Curious about how these hottest temps by state might affect your state? Check out NOAA’s climate resources for more details, and share your thoughts in the comments below!
